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Chapter 238could be an indication of GPs’ insufficient recognition and underestimation of the size of the ID population. This underestimation is also present in mental healthcare and is a reason for concern. 7 Identification of an ID is essential both for good care provision and for treatment success in MHDs.14 Helpful ID screening tools have been developed for GPs when they are considering an ID, but further implementation in practice is needed. 111, 112Our results revealed two strategies to improve care for patients with both ID and MHD; adequate medical training and applicable evidence-based guidelines and tools. This is in line with previous reports and publications concerning general health issues in patients with ID. 12, 113 It is also suggested that GPs should use the same treatment guidelines for mild or less complex MHDs in patients either with or without ID 44, 57, 65, 71, 73. However, research to substantiate this is scarce, and research in addiction care shows that alterations in the treatment programmes for substances use disorders are needed for patients with ID. 10 Furthermore, previous research projects have led to practical primary care tools, such as the Psychiatric Assessment Schedule for Adults with Developmental Disability (PASS-ADD). 31, 60However, these tools are not fully implemented in primary care.This review identified various kinds of primary care collaborations in which GPs participate, and shows that effective collaboration can improve care; the latter is widely supported and confirmed by the World Health Organization. 114 Our review had an international focus, and the possibilities of multidisciplinary approaches in primary care differ in the various healthcare systems. Within the ambitions and possibilities of the National Health Service, the United Kingdom (UK) sees integrated care systems as an important tool for improving healthcare and for reducing inequalities between different groups of people, 115and has long-term experience with Community Learning Disability Teams. These multidisciplinary teams provide healthcare and advice to people with ID, GPs, carers, families, and the wider health and social care community. 116 Another example of promising collaboration in daily practice is ‘The DD Health Home’ in the USA. This care model provides integrative routine care to patients with ID and MHD, including primary care and structural follow-up. 98 Despite these best practices, there is at present limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness Katrien Pouls sHL.indd 38 24-06-2024 16:26